I thought the running back that improved his stock the most at the combine was Tennessee's Montario Hardesty. A 41-inch vertal, sub 4.5 40 time - wow. He was a good college player, but overlooked. His college teammate, safety Eric Berry might emerge as the top defensive player. It's obvious he can play cornerback, if needed there. Thought Ndamukong Suh and Gerald McCoy were also impressive. There are some great athletes, particularly on defense, available in this draft. It's exceptional in that regard.

- Central Michigan quarterback Dan LeFevour hurt himself by not throwing. He could have really separated himself from the pack and stood out. Instead, people are left to wonder what he is hiding. He got some bad advice. Tim Tebow also hurt himself by not throwing. He is a great athlete, but he is not trying to win the decathlathon. His excellent workouts otherwise meant little because he didn't throw.

My Column in Wednesday's Oakland Press: By any standard, if Toby Gerhart were black, he'd be a first-round NFL draft pick http://tinyurl.com/yllzabb